In a shocking encounter that has thrown the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) under scrutiny, a businessman from Ogun State, Babatunde Adeyemo, narrowly escaped a potentially fatal bullet when a customs officer shot at his vehicle on December 8, 2024. The incident, which occurred at a checkpoint along the Orile Ibara Expressway, has led to the detention of the officer involved and an official investigation.
Adeyemo, the Chief Executive Officer of Pelican Valley Nigeria Limited, was in the company of three aides when his Mercedes-Benz was struck by a bullet. “If not for the laptop behind me, which absorbed the impact, I could have been killed,” Adeyemo disclosed in a statement, highlighting the danger he faced during the incident.
The ordeal, now under investigation by the NCS Federal Operations Unit (FOU) Zone A, has raised serious questions about the conduct and professionalism of customs officers. Comptroller Kola Oladeji, the unit’s head, wasted no time in taking action.
Customs Reacts with Swift Measures
The NCS has not shied away from addressing the controversy. According to a statement by its Public Relations Officer, Theophilus Duniya, the officer responsible has been detained while a disciplinary committee has been set up to probe the incident.
“Comptroller Kola Oladeji has swiftly taken action, launching a disciplinary committee to investigate the matter. The personnel involved has been identified and is currently in detention, awaiting further disciplinary sanctions,” the statement read.
In an apparent move to make amends, the Customs boss also ordered the immediate replacement of the damaged laptop and repairs to the vehicle. “This prompt response demonstrates the service’s dedication to making amends and ensuring that such incidents are thoroughly addressed,” the NCS added.
Legal Firestorm
Adeyemo’s legal counsel, CJP Ogugbara & Co., has taken the matter further, demanding justice, compensation, and prosecution of the officer. In a letter addressed to the NCS and signed by lawyer Pascal Ogugbara, the firm called for a payment of ₦50 million as compensation for the destruction of the laptop, which they claimed contained vital data on local and international investments worth billions of naira.
The legal demands extend beyond monetary compensation. “We demand the replacement of the vehicle either in cash based on its current market value or an equivalent substitute,” the letter stated, emphasizing that repairs would not suffice.
Ogugbara also insisted on a public apology to be published in two national newspapers. Additionally, the counsel urged the Customs Service to ensure that the officer involved faces charges of attempted murder.
Public Outcry
This incident has sparked widespread outrage, with citizens questioning the accountability of law enforcement agencies. Many argue that this is not an isolated case but part of a troubling pattern of overreach and abuse of power by officers at checkpoints.
“This situation is unacceptable,” remarked an analyst who chose to remain anonymous. “When public servants take actions that threaten the lives of citizens, it calls for deeper institutional reforms.”
The NCS, which has been plagued by similar controversies in the past, now faces a credibility test. Observers say the outcome of this investigation will either reinforce public trust or deepen skepticism about the agency’s commitment to discipline and professionalism.
While the Customs Service’s swift response has been lauded by some, others argue that it is merely a reaction to mounting public pressure. “The officer’s detention and promises of compensation are necessary steps,” commented a human rights activist. “But what about systemic changes to prevent such occurrences in the first place?”
As investigations continue, Adeyemo and his legal team remain resolute in their demands. “This is not just about compensation; it’s about ensuring justice and deterring future misconduct,” Ogugbara said in a statement.
The Customs Service, on its part, has emphasized its commitment to professionalism. However, it remains to be seen whether this incident will result in long-term reforms or fade into the annals of unresolved controversies.
For Adeyemo, the trauma of narrowly escaping death lingers. “I want accountability, not just for myself but for every Nigerian who could face such a situation,” he stated.
